Teresa's Recipes
Pasta Fagioli
Pasta Fagioli, or pasta and beans, is a traditional Italian soup that embodies the essence of comfort food. Originating from the rustic kitchens of Italy, this dish combines tender pasta with creamy cannellini beans, aromatic vegetables, and a rich broth. It’s a hearty, soul-warming meal that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it a cherished dish across generations.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1, diced Onion
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1, diced Carrot
- 2 stalks, diced Celery
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed Cannellini beans
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow)
- 1/2 cup, grated (for serving) Parmesan cheese
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 42g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté them until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
- Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Feel free to include additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For a heartier version, mix in some cooked sausage or pancetta.